Mount Batulao Peak — Attraction in Calaca

First things first - you do not need a guide. Locals will say you do but its not true.

Excellent views very little tree cover though so try to do it early. Locals will say it takes 5-6 hours - we did it in about 4 at a fairly slow pace with lots of breaks. It was very hot and humid by 11AM. Do not do this without sunscreen you will get burnt.

The trail is fairly well maintained. But the first mile is a road a big car probably wouldn't make, but a tuktuk-tricycle could. Along the route there's a handful of snack shacks, most of which seemed closed - we went on a weekday. The ropes arent really needed but do make it easier. There are points where there's some pebbles that can make it slippery so some decent shoes are good.

You don't actually need a guide although locals will aggressively insist you do, and it will be offered by people passing event up to the registration point (1.2 miles in) - just say no thanks and keep going. Have the trail downloaded of course. There is a hut that says the registration is to fund the school - they quoted us 150/per person for 4 ppl, but then didn't have change so we ended up paying 500 for 4.

if you bring a car there's parking available. We paid 100 for parking - that could probably fluctuate.

When exiting the area, if you take a left at the road and walk about 7 mins there's a small string of restaurants for an after hike snack. We went to the last one and it had the best garlic rice

We did the new trail only - all forks actually meet up and are the same trail - the only one that isn't is the one that has a sign and explicitly...

Mountain is closed till 31st May earliest and the man stationed there told me they will require permits to hike this trail in the future.

I left the summit too early - wait till 6-6:30am for the fog to dissipate and you might get an overview of the Taal Lake.

Views wise, I was blessed with a colourful sunrise, rolling fog and breathtaking views of the ridges and peaks; as well as plenty of wildlife.

I will suggest taking the new trail down to see the views of the ridges after sunrise. Going up the new trail in the dark may be more difficult; if you wish to do so, get a headlamp so you have both hands for scrambling/using the ropes.

Also, there was a lovely (and persistent) cat waiting at the peak (and begging for food) :).

Definitely not for first time hikers. Lots of up and downhills, loose dirt, and steep slopes, exposed ridges and near-vertical climbs with steps cut into the rock. Some sections have ropes to assist you when it’s too steep.

Get a guide if you are inexperienced, risk of falling off the mountain...

One of the most beautiful hiking trails in the Philippines, beginner friendly, easy to go up to summit. Just need to be careful your shoes are proper hiking shoes.

Highly recommend those who loves hiking but don’t have much experiences people.

Jump off point is very easy to find. After you get off the bus in Tagaytay highway , ride a tricycle, they’ll bring to the village where the mt Batulao trails start point , there are plenty tour guide , Very easy to find a tour guide in the jump off village.

There are few shops during the way to summit , so no need bring much water. Before you start the trails , better ask your tour guide how much water to bring. Maybe some of shops not open on the day due to...